Municipal playgrounds in Squamish are now closed.
The District of Squamish announced Sunday that playgrounds on District property are being shut down to prevent children from transmitting the COVID-19 virus.
"Parks crews are cordoning off playgrounds with caution tape and ask residents to respect the message it sends," read a release from the District sent out Sunday afternoon, March 22.
The move comes after other municipalities, including Vancouver, Richmond and Coquitlam, have done the same.
It also comes after a noticeable lack of social distancing seen in local parks over the weekend.
“As a parent, I know this is very challenging,” said Mayor, Karen Elliott in the release. “These efforts are required to be in place to keep our elderly family members and other vulnerable people safe. Self-discipline today is imperative to flatten the curve so that our health care system can keep up.”
Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has said that parents should not be facilitating playdates or trips to playgrounds as it could lead to further spread of the virus.
The District is asking the Sea to Sky school district to discuss closing school playgrounds and encourages complexes with playgrounds to also close them.
